Is Kilz Paint Good? A Comprehensive Analysis
When it comes to choosing the right paint for your home improvement projects, the brand you choose can significantly impact the final result. Kilz, a well-known name in the paint industry, offers a range of products that cater to various needs. But the question remains: is Kilz paint good? Let's delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Kilz: A Brief History
Kilz, established in 1954, is a subsidiary of Masco Corporation. The brand is renowned for its innovative primers and paints, with a strong focus on problem-solving solutions. Kilz's commitment to quality and performance has made it a trusted name among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Kilz Paint: Key Features and Benefits
- Primer and Paint in One: Many Kilz paint products combine the power of primer and paint in one, saving you time and money.
- Stain-Blocking Technology: Kilz's patented stain-blocking technology effectively hides tough stains, ensuring a smooth, even finish.
- Durability and Washability: Kilz paints are designed to withstand the test of time and heavy traffic, with many formulations offering excellent washability.
- Low Odor and VOCs: Kilz offers a range of low-odor and low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) products, making them a healthier choice for your home.
Kilz Paint Products: A Closer Look
Kilz offers a wide array of products to suit different surfaces and needs. Here's a quick overview of some of their popular lines:

| Product | Best Suited For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kilz Premium | Interior walls and ceilings | Primer and paint in one, stain-blocking, low odor |
| Kilz Kitchen & Bath | High-moisture areas | Mildew-resistant, stain-blocking, easy to clean |
| Kilz Chalky Finish | Furniture and decorative projects | Distressed, chalky finish, easy to distress and distress |
Kilz Paint: Pros and Cons
Before making a decision, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of Kilz paint.
Pros
- Excellent stain-blocking capabilities
- Durable and long-lasting finish
- Wide range of products for various surfaces and needs
- Low odor and low VOC options available
Cons
- Some users report a longer drying time compared to other brands
- Higher price point compared to budget-friendly alternatives
- Not all products are suitable for exterior use
Kilz vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
When comparing Kilz to other popular paint brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and Behr, Kilz holds its own. While each brand has its strengths, Kilz's stain-blocking technology and primer-and-paint-in-one formulations set it apart. However, the best brand ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Tips for Using Kilz Paint
To get the best results from your Kilz paint, follow these tips:

- Always prepare your surface properly, including sanding, cleaning, and priming when necessary.
- Use a high-quality paintbrush or roller designed for your chosen paint type.
- Apply paint in thin, even coats, allowing adequate drying time between applications.
- Consider using Kilz's complementary products, such as their paint conditioners and additives, for optimal results.
In conclusion, is Kilz paint good? Based on its innovative technology, durable finish, and wide range of products, the answer is a resounding yes. Kilz paint is an excellent choice for both professional painters and DIY enthusiasts looking for high-quality, reliable performance.
More Details
Feb 29, 2016 ... The original (oil based) Kilz primer/sealer is very good. It effectively blocks all kinds of tough stains from bleeding through, so I use it on ...

Jul 10, 2018 ... Personally, I like KILZ oil. Pretty good stuff. Not quite as good as CoverStain, but close and usually better-priced. Now, their latex stuff ...

Apr 18, 2022 ... 8:17. Go to channel Pros Pondering Paint · Which Primer is Best? Why it Failed (and How to Fix It). Pros Pondering Paint •7K views · 25:57.

Customers say that Kilz 2 All-Purpose Primer is a reliable and effective product for various painting projects, providing good coverage and easy application.

Feb 25, 2022 ... KILZ Original interior primer for example, is a legacy product trusted by pro painters for 50 years! It delivers excellent stain blocking, odor ...

Apr 20, 2005 ... Kilz is not what I would call a bad product instead I would call it adequate. It is usually priced cheaply so for the budget minded it can be a good deal.

Apr 25, 2024 ... "I've used Kilz 2 roll on primer." •. "KILZ works great and is pretty reasonably priced.".

Feb 18, 2022 ... Welcome to Priority Maintenance series "Product Review" In this episode, we will be talking about the "All-Purpose Primer 2 " by KILZ Is a ...

Highly reccomend for rust and other stains that come back when just painted. I've had paint stores try to sell me new water based products that after applying ...

Customers say that Kilz Original Interior Primer is a highly effective product for covering stains, odors, and dark colors, often achieving excellent results ...

Mar 28, 2018 ... Kilz is the best. I always had a gallon or two in my truck to seal stains, wallpaper glue residue and the dreaded nicotine film.

This interior and exterior primer is specially formulated to be a sound undercoat for paint and will help enhance the topcoat's performance. It has excellent ...

May 3, 2026 ... Kilz has earned its reputation for a reason. It's a reliable primer that handles stains, seals surfaces, and helps paint stick the way it should ...

Customers say Kilz 3 Premium Interior/Exterior Primer is a reliable choice for covering stains and providing a solid base for paint.

Nov 11, 2022 ... ... paint job. They are coated to bind with any form of paint like latex, oil-based, or water-based paint. Any kind of paint, when applied over ...

Jun 15, 2023 ... Still, Kilz Ceiling Paint is one of the very best and you can use it with confidence. Will it block the stains like the stain you see below? Hmm ...

Jan 1, 2025 ... A simple, latex drywall sealer is much easier to work with. Also, you should be back-rolling any interior, sprayed paint. Eliminates the “lines” ...

Jan 31, 2020 ... A fast drying, water-based multi-surface primer-sealer-stain blocker, it offers excellent adhesion, a mildew resistance primer film and can ...

Sep 20, 2011 ... Low smell and great coverage and it washes nicely. I'm sold on Kilz paint from now on. Reply. Jen Manzo says: July ...

Feb 26, 2026 ... Kilz 2 all-purpose interior/exterior primer is a general-purpose primer well suited for use on various DIY projects. This water-based primer has ...
